Dana welcomes back Britt from Brush with Britt on the podcast to discuss finances for dental hygienists—beyond just the hourly rate. New grads and early-career hygienists often overlook crucial factors when picking a job as a result of putting so much emphasis on their compensation package. Dana and Britt agree that work environment, commute, schedule flexibility, equipment quality, and long-term financial planning are equally important when accepting a job. Britt shares her best tips for negotiating pay, asking for creative bonuses, avoiding early burnout, and starting retirement savings like a Roth IRA—even without employer benefits. A higher hourly wage doesn’t always equal a better job or a better life. Before accepting or renegotiating a position, write down your top five non-negotiables (schedule, commute, culture, equipment, growth opportunities) and evaluate the offer as a whole—not just the number. If finances feel overwhelming or you’ve only been taught to chase the highest rate, this episode will help you zoom out, advocate for yourself, and make smarter money moves from the start.
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